Santa Clara Island
Santa Clara is a small island with a beach, trails, and unique views, just a few meters from the coast of Donostia. In 2021, a sculpture by Cristina Iglesias called Hondalea was inaugurated in the lighthouse building.
An island in the heart of the bay
Few cities can boast an island right in the middle of their bay, and San Sebastián is one of them. Visitors can enjoy its small beach with views of the city, a natural seawater pool, walks to the unique lighthouse building, trails with picnic areas, or coffee on the bar terrace. Its proximity to the bay’s beaches also makes it possible to swim to the island all year round.
From Ondarreta to Santa Clara
Few cities can boast an island right in the middle of their bay, and San Sebastián is one of them. You can enjoy its small beach with views of the city, a natural seawater pool, walks to the unique lighthouse building, trails with picnic areas, or coffee on the bar’s terrace. Its proximity to the bay’s beaches also makes it possible to swim to the island all year round.
Fun facts about Santa Clara Island
When the plague devastated the city in 1597, those infected were taken to the Hermitage on Santa Clara Island. Where the lighthouse stands today, the Hermitage of Santa Clara once stood.
The island is home to a lizard known as the Iberian wall lizard of San Sebastián or the Santa Clara Island lizard (Podarcis hispanicus sebastiani), an endemic subspecies found only on Santa Clara Island and Mount Urgull. The island even has its own celebration. Every September, at the end of summer, the Friends of the Island Association organizes a festive day with lunch, contests, giant-headed figures (“cabezudos”), and more. A great atmosphere is guaranteed!
The island is home to a lizard known as the Iberian wall lizard of San Sebastián or the Santa Clara Island lizard (Podarcis hispanicus sebastiani), an endemic subspecies found only on Santa Clara Island and Mount Urgull. The island even has its own celebration. Every September, at the end of summer, the Friends of the Island Association organizes a festive day with lunch, contests, giant-headed figures (“cabezudos”), and more. A great atmosphere is guaranteed!
Hondalea, art at the heart of the lighthouse
Cristina Iglesias’ work transforms the old lighthouse on Santa Clara Island into a unique artistic experience, where sculpture enters into dialogue with the sea. A must-visit for those looking to connect nature with contemporary art.